Codes and Conventions!!

Codes and Conventions of the Horror Genre

1. Themes:

- Good vs. Evil:

The struggle between heroic characters and malevolent forces.

- The Supernatural: Elements that exceed natural explanations, including ghosts, monsters, and otherworldly beings.

- Psychological Horror: Focuses on the mental state of characters, exploring themes of insanity, paranoia, and distorted perceptions of reality.

- Body Horror: Deals with the grotesque manipulation of the human body, often highlighting physical suffering and transformations.

- Survival: Characters are often placed in dangerous, isolated environments and must overcome overwhelming odds to survive. 

2. Characters:

- The Protagonist: The main character, often placed in peril.

- The Antagonist/Supernatural Entity: The opposing force that creates conflict, which can be a human villain or a supernatural being.

- The Victim: Characters who suffer at the hands of the antagonist.

- The Survivor: A character who makes it through the ordeal, often changed by their experience.

3. Locations:

- Isolated Locations: Settings that enhance fear and tension, such as remote cabins or abandoned buildings.

- Dark and Ominous Environments: Places that instill a sense of dread, often with a foreboding atmosphere.

- Locations with a Dark History: Sites that have experienced tragic events or supernatural occurrences.

4. Narrative Techniques:

- Suspense and Tension: Building fear through pacing and the gradual revelation of threats.

- Foreshadowing: Hinting at future events to create anticipation.

- Fear of the Unseen: Instilling terror through what is hidden or lurking in the shadows.

- Jump Scares: Sudden, shocking moments meant to startle the audience.

- Protagonist's Descent: The gradual unraveling of the protagonist’s mental state throughout the story.

5. Visual and Technical Codes:

- Low-Key Lighting: Creating shadows and contrasts to enhance the eerie atmosphere.

- Dark Color Palettes: Using muted and dark colors to evoke feelings of dread.

- Unusual Camera Angles: Employing unique perspectives to disorient viewers.

- Close-Ups: Focusing on characters’ faces to capture emotional reactions and create intimacy with their fear.

- Quick Cuts and Editing: Fast transitions that create a sense of urgency and chaos.

6. Sound Elements:

- Eerie and Unsettling Music: Compositions that evoke discomfort or fear.

- Sudden Loud Noises: Jarring sounds designed to startle viewers.

- Silence: Using quiet moments to heighten tension and make audiences anticipate what’s next.

- Diegetic Sounds: Sounds that originate from within the film’s world, contributing to realism and immersion.